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About Online Learning

Our online degree and certificate programs offer flexibility, convenience and the same high quality as our on-site programs. Online courses provide the flexibility to work around your busy schedule and at your own pace — participating from anywhere that offers access to the Internet.

Online does not mean “on your own.” In addition to the independence of online learning, our students enjoy participating in Jefferson College of Population Health’s thriving learning communities. You will be introduced to your community and to online study at JCPH through a comprehensive online orientation to help provide a smooth transition into each program’s coursework, resources and student colleagues.

You will also benefit from our application of best practices in online education that enhance learning and expand critical thinking skills. Equally important, you will be paired with a personal faculty mentor — a nationally recognized expert in the field — who will provide guidance with the capstone project.

Jefferson College of Population Health offers the following programs online:

If you have questions about the admissions process, please contact April Smith at
(215) 503-5305.

If you have questions specific to online learning please contact Lisa Chosed at
(215)503-6125.

FAQs About Our Online Programs

Along with these benefits, online learning will bring special demands. Because of its intensity and rigor, online learning may not be for everyone. We've answered some of the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about our online learning programs.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for online learning? I've heard that some people don’t do well in online courses.

You are correct – online learning is not for everyone. Success with online courses requires good organizational and time management skills. It is ideal for self-motivated and self-directed learners – those who like to work at their own, steady pace and on their own time. It also favors learners who are comfortable with lots of reading and writing and who don’t need face-to-face interaction with the instructor or other students to engage in meaningful discussions.

I’ve heard that online courses involve more time and work than on-site courses. Is this true?

For the most part, yes. More of the learning is self-directed and, contrary to what you may think, there is more opportunity for discussion and presentation of your work. When you sit in a classroom and the instructor asks a question, one or two students generally respond. When the instructor asks a question online, everyone has to respond. Also, in an online course you are able to share your work with other students, not just the instructor. Expect to devote 10-12 hours a week to your online course work.

I’ve never taken an online course before. How will I know what to do?

We provide an easy, fun, online orientation module that will introduce you to all aspects of the online learning experience. It will introduce you to Thomas Jefferson University’s online Course Management System, Blackboard Learn, and give you the opportunity to practice using this system.

Are online courses the same quality as on-site courses?

Absolutely, because of our course design and the application of the latest learning practices, at the graduate level learning outcomes are actually higher in an online course. Only the delivery format is different. The Jefferson College of Population Health subscribes to the award-winning Quality Matters (QM) Program which is dedicated to "inter-institutional quality assurance in online learning.” QM uses a rubric of eight general standards and 40 specific standards to evaluate the design and delivery of online courses. You can learn more about QM and these standards at www.QualityMatters.org.

Are JCPH’s programs accredited?

Yes. Jefferson and all JCPH programs are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the regional accrediting body for postsecondary institutions in the Mid-Atlantic region.

How long does it take to complete a JCPH online degree program?

Depending on your pace, you can complete a degree program in 24-48 months. If you take two courses per term (six courses per year — the maximum that we recommend), you can finish in 24-27 months. If you take one course per term, you can finish in 48 months. Certificates can be completed in 12-24 months.

Does the JCPH degree program have a residency requirement? Will I ever have to come to campus?

Yes, you will have to come on campus once for one week to present your Capstone project after you have completed all coursework for the degree.

Do I have to be available at precise times during the day or week?

No. JCPH’s courses are asynchronous. This means that you do the work on your own schedule.

How many students are in a typical JCPH online course?

We try to limit each class to 15 students. This way, there is plenty of opportunity for interaction and discussion between instructor and students and among the students themselves.

How many hours per week will I need to devote to an online course?

On average, 10-12 hours depending on the course and your learning style. This includes reading and writing assignments, online discussions and activities, tests, exams, papers and projects.

Will there be a real person I can talk to if I have a problem?

Yes, you will be assigned a Program Liaison who will be able to answer all your questions or put you in contact with the people that can.

Do I need a special kind of computer or special software to take a JCPH online course?

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The Web site for Thomas Jefferson University, its contents and programs, is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor, is it intended to create any physician-patient relationship. Please remember that this information should not substitute for a visit or a consultation with a healthcare provider. The views or opinions expressed in the resources provided do not necessarily reflect those of Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Thomas Jefferson University or their staffs. By using this Web site, you accept these terms of use. Please read our online privacy statement. Please read our our privacy practices.